Now that we’re firmly planted in March, it feels safe to say it out loud: spring is practically here. Along with bluer skies and brighter days, it also brings the perfect time of year for cleaning and organizing.
19.02.2024 - 14:35 / theunconventionalgardener.com / guest
Simonetta Di Pippo, Bocconi University
A 2019 Time magazine cover portrayed four astronauts running towards the Moon. Pictured alongside the headline “The Next Space Race”, one of the astronauts carried an American flag, one carried a Chinese flag and the other two belonged to space companies owned by billionaires: Elon Musk’s SpaceX and Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin.
Until recently, it seemed as if the US and SpaceX were set to win this race to return to the Moon with Nasa’s Artemis programme. But a number of setbacks have called that into question. And Blue Origin, China and other countries and companies are continuing their own lunar efforts.
On January 9 2024, Nasa announced that it was delaying the Artemis 2 mission, the first crewed flight of the Space Launch System (SLS) and the Orion capsule – the vehicles built to send astronauts back to deep space. The flight would slip from late 2024 to no earlier than September 2025. This was due to some safety issues that need to be fixed on Orion.
Consequently, Artemis 3, which is supposed to involve the first crewed lunar landing since 1972, will take place no earlier than September 2026. Artemis 3 is to use SpaceX’s Starship orbiter as the lander for two crew members. This mission is set to put the first woman and the first person of colour on the lunar surface.
A non-American crew member could also walk on the Moon by 2030, highlighting the fact that Nasa has involved international partners in the Artemis venture. Up until now, just 12 humans have set foot on the Moon. All of them have been male and all have been American.
However, the Starship orbiter, crucial to these aims, has experienced problems. A second test launch for the rocketship-like orbiter atop its huge booster rocket
Now that we’re firmly planted in March, it feels safe to say it out loud: spring is practically here. Along with bluer skies and brighter days, it also brings the perfect time of year for cleaning and organizing.
Laurent Palka, Muséum national d’histoire naturelle (MNHN)
Instagram is a constant source of inspiration for those of us in the design world. Bursting with beautiful interiors and gardens, it's the perfect way to keep up with the news and, frankly, to just wallow in lovely imagery. Here are our picks of the best gardeners to follow, from the world's top garden designers to exciting emerging talents.
Easy Fixes for Calla Lilies That Won’t Bloom
Polyester was once thought to be a wonder fiber. Both durable and efficient, with no need for farmland or vast amounts of water, it threatened to leave natural fibers like cotton in the dust.
When it comes to interior design, there are certain topics that people get passionate—and even polarized—about: maximalism versus minimalism, carpet versus hardwood floors, and of course, open-concept versus closed-concept layouts.
Jillian Rosone
Dumping manure in public spaces, hurling eggs at government buildings, blocking major roads—the European farmers who have taken to the streets to challenge free trade policies sure know how to raise a ruckus. Beginning with German farmers in January earlier this year, to then include French and Belgian producers, the continent-wide protest movement has expanded into Spain and Italy as of mid-February. Their public disruption has also produced results.
How to Grow and Care for ZZ Plants Zamioculcas zamiifolia
How to Grow and Care for Areca Palm Dypsis lutescens
What Are Fruit Tree Guilds? Learn How to Start Your Own
How and When to Harvest Beets